The Call for Homegrown AI Solutions in Africa
At the 5th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (MIRG-ICAIR 2025), held at the University of Lagos Multipurpose Hall, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof Folasade Ogunsola, emphasized the need for African countries to develop their own Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions. These solutions should be tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the continent.
The conference attracted a diverse group of participants, including students from the University of Lagos and attendees from around the world. Several technology organizations also took part, showcasing various AI tools and innovations that are shaping the future of digital transformation.
A Focus on Sustainable AI Infrastructure
The theme of the conference, “Building Sustainable AI-Driven Transformation Infrastructures for African Economies,” highlighted the importance of creating robust and scalable digital technologies. According to Prof Olufemi Saibu, who represented Ogunsola, these technologies can enhance productivity and tackle sector-specific issues across the continent.
Ogunsola, through Saibu, emphasized that the University of Lagos has been a leader in AI research and innovation. Recent initiatives have aimed to position students as leaders in emerging technologies. She shared some of the university’s recent achievements, such as the launch of the “OpenAI Academy for Africa” last month and the upcoming launch of a world-class AI lab donated by the United Nations programmes.
The university is committed to improving AI education, empowerment, and deployment in Africa. A deliberate effort to create a Faculty of Computing and Informatics aims to build a unit that not only uses technology but also develops solutions that are specifically designed for African challenges.
AI as a Tool for Economic Transformation
In his address, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy of Nigeria, Bosun Tijani, represented by Dr. Bunmi Ajala, highlighted how AI is reshaping economies and transforming key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and public services. He stated that AI is no longer just a technological trend but a fundamental infrastructure for improving productivity.
Tijani noted that Nigeria, with its youthful population and solvable challenges, has a unique opportunity to leverage AI for economic transformation. He added that AI is already making a significant impact and could help the country leapfrog developmental stages.
Emphasizing Linguistic and Cultural Diversity
Muhammad Abdul-Mageed, a professor at the University of British Columbia, urged African researchers to focus on building AI tools that reflect the continent’s linguistic and cultural diversity. He argued that such efforts would give a voice to Africa and ensure that technology aligns with local needs.
Abdul-Mageed stressed that African communities should not rely solely on technology developed elsewhere. He said, “Every profession needs technology to thrive. We represent the communities we belong to, and we must look for solutions to their problems. The future is Africa.”
A Hub for Innovation
Dr. Chika Yinka-Banjo, Head of the Department of Computer Science at the University of Lagos, described the department as a vibrant hub for innovation. She welcomed all participants to the conference and expressed hope for its success.
Conclusion
The MIRG-ICAIR 2025 conference underscored the growing importance of AI in driving sustainable development across Africa. With a focus on homegrown solutions, the event highlighted the potential of AI to transform economies and address the unique challenges faced by the continent. As African institutions and researchers continue to invest in AI, the future looks promising for a more inclusive and innovative digital landscape.